Ralph'S Favorite Hamburger Balls And Gravy
Ralph's Favorite Hamburger Balls and Gravy features tender meatballs seasoned simply, browned to perfection, offering a hearty and comforting dish suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, torn bread pieces, water, salt, and pepper together well and shape into balls.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little lard until cooked through and nicely browned.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them in a bowl.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for uniform cooking. Serve with a rich gravy, similar to what you'd find in American recipes, for an even heartier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hamburger balls over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the savory gravy. Pair with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal. They also go well with crusty bread to enjoy the delicious sauce. For a fun variation, try serving them alongside Wilma'S Stuffed Bell Peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ralph'S Favorite Hamburger Balls And Gravy contains roughly 366 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 977mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the hamburger balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked hamburger balls. To freeze uncooked, shape them and lay them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, let them cool before freezing. They can be reheated directly from frozen by baking or simmering in gravy.
What can I use instead of white bread?
If you don't have white bread on hand, you can substitute with whole wheat bread, breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers. Just ensure the substitute can absorb moisture to bind the meatballs effectively. This allows for variations in texture and flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Alternatively, they should be browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).